Dhaka: Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Mohammad Ejaz has announced plans to restrict battery-run rickshaws from operating on the main streets within the city corporation’s jurisdiction. ‘DNCC wants to play an effective role to stop playing of battery run rickshaws from the main thoroughfares to avert hazards in the city,’ he stated, while also mentioning that alternative measures would be considered for the families of the four million rickshaw drivers affected by this decision.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the newly appointed DNCC administrator made these remarks during a views exchange meeting with journalists at the DNCC Bhaban in Gulshan. He emphasized that the DNCC will formulate a new plan to enhance civic facilities and promote environmentally friendly public transport options through a democratic process that incorporates public opinion.
Ejaz sought cooperation from all stakeholders to build a fair, tolerable, and humane Dhaka. He highlighted that the DNCC is actively working to reclaim encroached lands and sports grounds, intending to repurpose these areas for public use. He assured that political considerations would not influence these efforts and that decisive action would be taken against extortionists and terrorists.
Moreover, the DNCC administrator revealed plans to revive encroached canals, making them navigable once again. Local residents would be engaged in protecting these waterways, and measures would be implemented to manage water logging during the rainy season.
Senior officials of the DNCC were present during the meeting, underscoring the importance of these initiatives for the city’s future development.